Tanacetum parthenium was traditionally used to cure fevers. The herb’s common name is derived from the Latin name febris (fever) and fugure (to drive away).

Traditional indications include

Prophylaxis and treatment of migraine, tension headache and associated symptoms

Cleanse the kidneys

Stimulate menstruation

Expel worms

Face and ear pain relied in rheumatic conditions

(Bone & Mills, 2013, p. 566)

The Eclectics used feverfew as a tonic that influenced the whole gastro-intestinal tract, increased appetite and improved digestion and secretion. The herb gained popularity in Europe in the 1980’s as a migraine remedy (Bone & Mills, 2013, p. 566).

Indications (contemporary)

Coughs & colds

Febrile diseases

Atonic dyspepsia

Nervous debility

(Bone & Mills, 2013, p. 566)

Migraine headaches (particularly those eased by the application of warmth to the head).

Arthritis (in inflammatory stage)

May help alleviate dizziness and tinnitus

May relieve painful periods and sluggish menstrual flow

(Hoffmann, 2003, p. 587)

Preparation & Dosage

Warm infusion

Decoction

Poultice

Fresh plant tincture (1:1) 0.7-2mL/day

Died plant tincture: (1:5) 1-2mL/day

Tablet: 150mg dried herb/1-2 times a day

(Bone & Mills, 2013, p. 566)

Cautions & Contradictions

Dose should be minimal in pregnancy, especially in the first trimester (Bone & Mills, 2013, p. 574). Hoffmann suggests that it is contraindicated in pregnancy (2003, p. 578).

Known allergy to feverfew or other members of Compositae family (Bone & Mills, 2013, p. 574)